Transition times stir things up, cause unusual hopes and fears, bring stuff at the bottom to the top and take one set of priorities and replace them with another. Things move quickly during major transitions, what was standard at one time is replaced by a new approach.
Since this new period is just beginning, we don't know how it will turn out, but one thing is certain: these are historic times in the Catholic Church. Pope Francis is moving quickly on many fronts and the vision of Vatican II is growing some flesh. Finally.
"Every Catholic -- liberal, conservative, or confused -- will benefit from Tom Smith's intelligent book Church Chat. I highly recommend this lively and loving book."
-Michael Leach, author of Why Stay Catholic?
Unexpected Answers to a Life-Changing Question
"Church Chat is a great read for veteran Church reformers as well as for people in the pews. The issue treatment is very comprehensive and right on... all done in a friendly conversational style. The reader thus comes away with a window into a hope filled near future for the People of God as well as a warm connection with Tom on his soulful journey forward."
-Dan and Sheila Daley, Co-Founders of Call to Action